Review: Viva Panjim, Goa

Finding Viva Panjim amid the streets of Panaji can be a little daunting, but it came so highly recommended we were up for the task. Count on asking locals for directions, but eventually you’ll stumble upon the old Portuguese mansion that houses this quirky restaurant.

The décor of the joint is more reminiscent of a home than a restaurant with many of the art pieces and furniture downright antique in nature. It’s cozy, but incredibly old school. Viva Panjim serves traditional Goan food and the prices are affordable so you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank.

The wait staff is professional and helpful when it comes to explaining the menu, loaded with a variety of soups, pork dishes, seafood and desserts. I tasted the xacuti, which was a type of Goan mushroom curry, and it turned out to be delicious. My friend went for the pork ribs, also great. The feni cocktails were also a must have and the bebinca, a Goan dessert that seemed to contain coconut and egg, was surprisingly excellent.

Overall, we were pleased with our experience here and were dying to try more of the food, but didn’t have time before leaving town. It’s definitely on my list for places to return to next time I’m in the area.